David de Gea 7 – Was something of a port in a storm and could do little with two precise Steven Gerrard penalties. Pulled off a number of smart saves to keep the score moderately respectable including one fine stop to deny Suarez from point-blank range.

Rafael 5 – Strange game for the full-back who somehow managed to escape a dismissal despite walking a disciplinary tightrope following an early booking. Gave away a penalty but definitely showed some fight. Perhaps struggled offensively as he had no player in front of him for large spells but almost set Rooney up with a good cross.

Phil Jones 5 – Started relatively well and enjoyed a decent first half where he got tight to Liverpool’s front two when possible. Was at times too eager to win the ball back as shown when he gave away a penalty 30 seconds into the second half, although he was admirably fierce in the tackle.

Nemanja Vidic 4 – Many expected the Serbian to struggle with the pace of Liverpool’s front three and that was the case. United’s skipper was again dismissed against a Liverpool side, although some may consider it harsh. Lack of mobility was exposed.

Patrice Evra 4 – Another quiet outing for the Frenchman who was subdued offensively once more. Wasn’t truly tested by Sterling however, with United’s problems stemming from the middle rather than wide areas.

Juan Mata 4 – Struggled to have any impact on the game and ghosted in and out of play. Being deployed out of position didn’t help the intricate Spaniard but he really struggled for involvement and should have gotten tighter on occasion.

Marouane Fellaini 4 – Came in on the back of a few decent performances but was far too clumsy in possession today and looked a liability in the centre at times. A bloody head sustained by a Gerrard challenge summed up the hiding he took today, he often found too far ahead of the ball and was overwhelmed alongside Carrick.

Michael Carrick 4 – Didn’t see enough of the ball and when he did his passes were often sloppy. Wasn’t aided by a lack of an out ball out wide but really struggled in the centre and was given the run around by Liverpool’s midfield trio. Lucky to not giveaway a fourth penalty for a trip on Sturridge.

Adnan Januzaj 4 – It was a surprise to see the youngster start given his recent showings and again, the 19-year-old was uninvolved for large periods. Had a few runs at Flanagan but never truly looked to have the beating of him and his defensive efforts need to be worked on.

Wayne Rooney 5 – Far from his best but was better than most of his teammates and certainly put a shift in. Tested Mignolet with a side-footed effort and did link play well and a couple of occasions. However, he should have got much tighter to Gerrard when Liverpool were in possession.

Robin van Persie 4 – Despite stating he is happy at United, something still appears wrong with our once mercurial Dutchman. Again, his partnership with Rooney was non-existent, and the shoulders were slumped at times as he snatched at the limited opportunities which came his way.

Substitutes

Danny Welbeck n/a – Many suggested the England international should have started and his direct, eager style may have helped United get something from the game if he had been introduced earlier.

Tom Cleverley n/a – Another late change. Struggled to affect play but could start against Olympiacos.